Despite a tepid plot and flat characters, this contemporary police procedural from prolific British author Ashford (Illegal Guilt
) nicely illustrates the difficulty of interpreting circumstantial evidence. Imperious Australian Fiona Ross demands that the Carnford police locate her good friend, Gillian Harvey. When Ross paid a call on Gillian and found her not at home, Gillian's dairy farmer husband, Tom, said Gillian was gone and he had no idea where. Ross suspects Tom, with whom Gillian was having difficulties, has done her in. Initial, cautious inquiries lead to detailed and pointed investigations and interrogations. Wealth (hers), unfaithfulness (his), a pawned ring and Gillian's continued absence all point to foul play. The members of the ragged police force, nominally led by Detective Chief Superintendent Kirby, plod toward the elusive truth. Ashford, as Roderic Jeffries, is the author of the Inspector Alvarez series (Sun, Sea, Murder
, etc.). (Oct.)
